Botanical Name: Plectranthus scutellarioides ‘Pineapple’

Common Name: Coleus

Hardiness Zone: Annual in Most Climates; Perennial in Warm Regions (USDA Zones 10–11)

Size: 18–24" Tall × 18–24" Spread

Growth Habit: Upright, Bushy, Well-Branched Habit

Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Shade; Tolerates Gentle Morning Sun

Soil: Prefers Moist, Well-Drained, Organic-Rich Soil

Water Needs: Moderate; Even Moisture for Best Foliage Quality

Bloom Season: Grown for Foliage (Spring through Fall)

Fertilizer: Light, Regular Feeding During Active Growth

Features: Bright Chartreuse-Yellow Foliage with Fine Red Veining, Soft Textured Leaves, High Contrast Color

Uses: Ideal for Containers, Shaded Beds, Borders, Accent Plantings, and Brightening Dark Spaces

Patent: ❌ Not Patented

Propagation: ✔ Propagation Permitted

See our complete Coleus Plant Guide for in depth care details.

More About Coleus ‘Pineapple’

Coleus ‘Pineapple’ is prized for its luminous chartreuse-yellow foliage accented with fine red veining, giving the plant a warm, glowing appearance in shaded landscapes. The color reads especially bright in low-light areas, making it an excellent choice for lifting darker garden spaces where flowering plants may struggle. Its foliage has a softer texture than many modern coleus, contributing to a more classic, ornamental look.

This variety develops into a full, upright plant with good natural branching and a tidy overall shape. While it prefers protection from harsh afternoon sun, ‘Pineapple’ performs beautifully in filtered light or full shade, where its foliage color remains clean and vibrant throughout the growing season.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, Coleus ‘Pineapple’ has consistently impressed as a shade-garden standout. It establishes quickly, fills containers evenly, and maintains bright, consistent color without scorching when grown in appropriate light. We’ve found it especially reliable in north-facing beds, under trees, and in shaded patio containers.

Design-wise, ‘Pineapple’ functions as a natural highlighter. Its chartreuse tones pair exceptionally well with deep purples, burgundies, blues, and dark greens, creating layered, high-contrast combinations. It’s an easy way to add brightness and visual interest without relying on blooms.

Pineapple vs. Other Coleus

‘Pineapple’ is the warmest of the yellow-green coleus, clearly distinct from cooler limes like ‘Volcanica™ Wasabi’ and ‘ChargedUp™ Electric Lime’. Its golden tones soften plantings, with a sunny, approachable presence that feels less intense than true lime varieties. As a result, ‘Pineapple’ integrates easily into mixed containers and garden beds without overwhelming nearby plants.

Compared to ‘Bonnie Gold’, Pineapple is brighter and more cheerful, while Bonnie Gold leans muted. Pineapple immediately catches the eye, especially in morning and afternoon light. Bonnie Gold, by contrast, functions more as a background or blending foliage.

Against dramatic varieties like ‘FlameThrower™ Salsa Verde’ and ‘Down Town® Vegas Neon’, Pineapple plays a supporting role, enhancing contrast without competing. Its softer coloration helps temper high-energy designs. This makes Pineapple especially useful when balancing bold foliage with flowering annuals.